Investigating factors that lead to early-onset colorectal cancer.
Official title: PROSPECT - Microbiome Studies. (PATHWAYS, RISK FACTORS, AND MOLECULES TO PREVENT EARLY-ONSET COLORECTAL TUMOURS)
Funded at University of Trento · NIH-11042285 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into what causes colorectal cancer in people under 50, using animal models and data to find out how biology, environment, and lifestyle play a role, so we can come up with better ways to prevent this disease and help those at risk.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Trento NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Trento, Italy) |
| Project start | May 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $134,258 |
| NIH project number | 1OT2CA297205-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11042285 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals under 50 years old who may be at risk for colorectal cancer due to genetic, environmental, or lifestyle factors.
✕Less likely to help
Patients over the age of 50 or those with established colorectal cancer may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to understand the complex factors that contribute to colorectal cancer in individuals under 50 years old. By examining biological, environmental, and lifestyle influences, the team will utilize advanced animal models and data analysis to identify key risk factors. The goal is to develop strategies for prevention and interception of this disease, ultimately aiming to reverse the rising trend of early-onset colorectal cancer. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new prevention methods tailored to their specific risk profiles.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to effective prevention strategies for early-onset colorectal cancer, potentially saving lives.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding the microbiome's role in cancer prevention, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Trento
Trento, Italy Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Segata, Nicola — University of Trento
- Study coordinator: Segata, Nicola
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.